The fishing community of Hanstholm in Denmark has raised a large sum of money for the family of a 55-year-old fisherman who died after his vessel collided with the harbour entrance during a storm last Sunday.
Locals unite after tragedy
The accident sent shockwaves through the tight-knit North Jutland town. In response, Hanstholm Fishermen’s Association quickly set up a fundraising campaign to support the bereaved family.
“We’ve done it before, and some of our members encouraged us to do it again. In such situations, there’s always something practical and financial to deal with – this is our way of lending a hand,” said Jan Hansen, chairman of the association, to TV MIDTVEST.
The collection was launched ahead of the fisherman’s funeral on Saturday and, according to Hansen, has already reached what he described as a “large amount”. The exact figure has not been disclosed.
Vessel lost steering
The fatal incident occurred on the evening of 5 October. Four crew members were on board when the vessel lost steering control in violent weather and hit the harbour entrance. The hull was breached, and the boat began to sink.
Rescuers managed to pull all four from the water. Still, the 55-year-old’s condition was critical, and he was pronounced dead shortly after. The three others — aged 24, 24 and 33 — survived without life-threatening injuries.
Accident under investigation
Police say the cause of the accident remains under investigation, with the Danish Maritime Authority set to conduct a technical review once the weather allows.
“It was a horrific experience for everyone,” Hansen added. “But the response from the community has been overwhelming. When there’s a need, people here stand together.”
Source: TV Midtvest